What is the meaning of Proverbs 17:19?

Loving transgression loves strife

“He who loves transgression loves strife” (Proverbs 17:19a)

• To “love” transgression is more than occasionally slipping into wrong; it is cherishing it, guarding it, treating it like a friend.

• Scripture always couples sin with turmoil:

– “Where there is strife, there is pride; but wisdom is with the well-advised” (Proverbs 13:10).

– “What causes conflicts and quarrels among you? Don’t they come from the passions at war within you?” (James 4:1).

• Sin fractures relationships—first with God, then with people. It is impossible to cling to rebellion and expect lasting peace.

• Romans 1:29 paints the picture vividly: when humanity pursues unrighteousness, “they are filled with all unrighteousness, wickedness, greed, and malice… strife, deceit, and hostility.”

• Therefore, the proverb simply states a natural reality: loving sin inevitably means loving the chaos sin produces.

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Building one’s gate high invites destruction

“…he who builds his gate high invites destruction” (Proverbs 17:19b)

• In ancient cities, gates symbolized security and status. Elevating a gate broadcasted, “I’m untouchable.”

• Prideful self-exaltation attracts judgment:

– “Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall” (Proverbs 16:18).

– “The arrogance of your heart has deceived you… Though you soar like the eagle… I will bring you down” (Obadiah 3-4).

• A high gate can also hint at exclusivity—shutting others out, shielding sin behind imposing walls. Hidden wrongdoing grows in the dark until it collapses the structure entirely.

• Isaiah 2:11-12 warns that “The proud look of man will be humbled… the LORD alone will be exalted in that day.” God personally opposes the structures we raise to glorify self.

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summary

Proverbs 17:19 places two images side by side to expose the same heart issue. Delight in sin and elevation of self both open the door to conflict, collapse, and God’s corrective hand. The path to peace and safety is not higher walls or stubborn rebellion but humble repentance and obedience to the Lord who “gives grace to the humble” (James 4:6).